Every day our educators here at the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) find ways to use the museums and community to engage young children in deep and meaningful explorations. We know that traditional object-based museums everywhere have taken on the challenge of creating incredible experiences for children under the age of 6 years old. It makes sense, then, that we’ve been thinking a lot about how museums can systematically support the President’s investment in early care and education. As we talk to folks in the field, we’re hearing that we need to pull together and share information. The children’s museum community provides us with an important foundation for this kind of work. If we want decision makers to recognize that all museums are an important resource in preparing children to succeed in school and life, we need proof. Who is doing what? What’s working? Who has research that provides evidence that our efforts are making an impact? Let find out. Tell us what you’re up to and how you know it’s working.

On August 14, the Smithsonian’s Early Learning Collaborative will convene. It would be great to share a few of your highlights as we continue our Smithsonian wide conversation about serving the unique needs of very young audiences. We’ll keep you posted as things proceed!